Childhood's End Study Guide

Set in the year 1975, the first chapter opens on the Pacific island of Taratura. American scientist Reinhold is preparing to launch "Columbus," a space shuttle he has helped the U.S. government build. He sadly reflects on how the ship's flames will obliterate the tropical island upon blast off. A boat, the James Forrestal, is scanning the coastal water with searchlights, and Reinhold wonders if it is searching for Russian submarines. (read more)